J. Michael’s celebrates 30 years

If you are after the best cheesesteak in town, many will point you to J. Michael’s. Sunday, the authentic Philadelphia-style deli is celebrating 30 years in Wilmington.

Cheesesteaks are the specialty, but the friendly folks and sports-bar-like atmosphere also help keep the place packed. There are three locations and some of the most loyal customers in town.

“Actually we’re really from Philadelphia, so we grew up on steaks,” said Jean Dunn of Wilmington. “When they first opened up, we were here, and we’ve been supporting them ever since.”

Greensboro’s Carol Bowden said, “We didn’t want to leave Wilmington because we didn’t want to leave J. Michael’s. It’s so good.”

Co-owner Michael Hutson said, “We’re going to celebrate Sunday by building a 79-foot cheesesteak, and we’re going to have a cheesesteak eating contest and some dance demonstrations. We’re just going to have a party.”

The festivities kick off this Sunday at 6:00 p.m. at the J. Michael’s Philly Deli at Hanover Center on Oleander Drive.